What perception hindered New Mexico's quest for statehood?

The perception that New Mexicans were not patriotic to the United States significantly hindered the territory's quest for statehood. This perception stemmed from a variety of factors, including the area's rich cultural diversity and the historical context of New Mexico, which had a complex relationship with both Spanish and later Mexican governance before becoming a U.S. territory. Many U.S. lawmakers and citizens viewed the population as potentially disloyal due to their cultural ties and the desire to maintain their distinct identity, which created doubts about their commitment to the ideals of American democracy and nationalism. Such doubts about loyalty and patriotism often overshadowed other important considerations, such as economic capabilities or willingness to serve in the military, making it a barrier to achieving statehood.